The Coaching Habit
Say Less, Ask More and Change the Way You Lead Forever
Michael Bungay Stanier
The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever is a concise and practical guide for leaders aiming to enhance their coaching skills. Drawing from his extensive experience, Michael Bungay Stanier introduces seven essential questions designed to foster meaningful conversations and empower teams.
The book challenges the traditional directive approach to leadership, advocating instead for a habit of curiosity and inquiry. By consistently asking questions like “What’s on your mind?” and “What’s the real challenge here for you?”, leaders can shift from providing solutions to facilitating self-discovery among team members. This approach not only promotes autonomy but also reduces overdependence on managerial input.
Bungay Stanier emphasises that effective coaching doesn't require lengthy sessions; even brief, focused interactions can lead to significant insights. The simplicity of the seven questions makes them easy to integrate into daily conversations, making coaching a regular, informal part of leadership practice.
For educational leaders, teachers, and other busy professionals, The Coaching Habit offers a refreshing perspective on leadership. It encourages a shift from telling to asking, from solving to listening, fostering a culture of growth and self-reliance. Bungay Stanier’s approachable writing style and actionable advice make this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to develop a more effective and empowering leadership style.
In a world where time is limited and demands are high, The Coaching Habit provides a straightforward, impactful approach to leadership that can be implemented immediately. It's a must-read for those seeking to lead with intention and foster meaningful development within their teams.
